In the numismatic world, a handful of misprinted dimes and nickels stand out for their rarity and fascinating backstories. These coins are more than currency—they’re pieces of history that have fetched astonishing prices at auctions. Let’s look into some of the most notable examples that captivate collectors.
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1975 No-S Dime
The 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime is a crown jewel in coin collecting. This rare dime lacks the “S” mint mark, a hallmark of coins from the San Francisco Mint. Only two specimens exist, making it an extraordinary find. In October 2024, one sold for $506,250, skyrocketing from its original 1978 purchase price of $18,200.
1894-S Barber Dime
With only 24 Barber Dimes minted in 1894 and just nine surviving today, this coin is the epitome of scarcity. Known for its iconic design and rarity, it fetched over $1.9 million in a 2007 auction, securing its place among the rarest U.S. coins.
1913 Liberty Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is shrouded in mystery due to its unauthorized minting. Only five coins were ever produced, and their rarity is unmatched. These nickels have reached prices of up to $3.7 million, making them a dream find for collectors.
1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel
Errors often drive up a coin’s value, and the 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel is a prime example. Created when a 1917 die was repurposed in 1918, this coin bears two overlapping dates. High-grade specimens can fetch up to $350,750, thanks to their unique overdate error.
1937-D Three-Legged Nickel
Sometimes, even mistakes can be valuable. The 1937-D Buffalo Nickel, with its missing front leg due to excessive die polishing, is a collector’s favorite. This quirky error has pushed its auction price to $99,875 for top-condition coins.
1968 No-S Dime
Another missing mint mark adds to the list of prized coins. The 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime lacks the “S” mint mark, with fewer than 20 examples known. Depending on the condition, these coins have been sold for over $20,000 at auctions.
1942/1 Mercury Dime
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime features an overdate error, combining elements of 1942 and 1941. This unique feature has made it highly sought-after. Top-tier examples have been known to sell for more than $100,000, cementing its status as a prized collector’s item.
| Coin | Description | Auction Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1975 No-S Proof Dime | Missing “S” mint mark; only two known | $506,250 |
| 1894-S Barber Dime | One of nine survivors; extremely rare | Over $1.9 million |
| 1913 Liberty Nickel | Unauthorized minting; five specimens | Up to $3.7 million |
| 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel | Overdate error with two dates | $350,750 |
| 1937-D Three-Legged Nickel | Missing front leg due to die polishing | $99,875 |
| 1968 No-S Proof Dime | Missing “S” mint mark; fewer than 20 known | Over $20,000 |
| 1942/1 Mercury Dime | Overdate error combining two years’ elements | Over $100,000 |
These coins exemplify how rarity, errors, and history intertwine to create some of the most coveted pieces in numismatics. Whether it’s a missing mint mark or an overdate error, each coin tells its own story, making it a treasure for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
FAQs
What makes the 1975 No-S Dime valuable?
Its rarity, with only two known examples, makes it highly valuable.
How rare is the 1913 Liberty Nickel?
Only five were minted, making it one of the rarest U.S. coins.
What is special about the 1937-D Three-Legged Nickel?
It features a minting error where one of the buffalo’s legs is missing.
Why is the 1894-S Barber Dime so expensive?
Its limited mintage of 24 coins makes it extremely scarce.
What is an overdate error on a coin?
It’s when a coin displays elements of two different years on its date.
